What is Safeguarding Lead (DSL)?

The Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) is a senior member of your team who takes lead responsibility for safeguarding and child protection. In many smaller activity businesses, this role is held by the owner or manager. The DSL must complete specific safeguarding training — typically a Level 3 Designated Safeguarding Lead course — and refresh this training every two years.

The DSL's responsibilities include: receiving and recording safeguarding concerns from staff, parents, or children; making referrals to local authority children's social care or the police where appropriate; maintaining confidential safeguarding records; ensuring the safeguarding policy is up to date and understood by all staff; liaising with external agencies such as the LADO (Local Authority Designated Officer); and promoting a culture of vigilance and openness within the organisation.

It is good practice to have a deputy DSL who can act in the lead's absence, particularly if your business operates across multiple venues or during holiday camps when the primary DSL may not always be on site. All staff should know who the DSL is, how to contact them, and what to do if neither the DSL nor the deputy is available. Display the DSL's name and contact details prominently at every venue.